[hs13579]

I am looking into buying a Gen 2 or 3 Odyssey and want to install 3 cargo boxes on the hitch (total of 40 cu.ft.) and a 4-bike rack on top. I estimate total weight to be 620-650 lbs, so let's say 700 lbs.

Is this possible? Would the problem be with the hitch structure itself? Or the attachment points hitch-to-chassis? Or chassis strength itself?

Since this will be a cantilevered weight on the rear axle - I guesstimate 1000 lbs -- will I be exceeding Rear GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) published at 2840 lbs? If not, I can try to address suspension geometry with air-bags.

As an option, I can mount a roof-top cargo carrier, and lighten the load on the rear hitch by 150 lbs. So hitch load would be 500 lbs = 800 lbs cantilevered.

 

[hs13579]

Can't park in the city with a trailer.

 

[hs13579]

Yes, air bags would be a pre-requisite to these loads.

I am not sure if the hitch class is the only issue. Yes, theoretically I could put a class III or even IV (universal) and have the hitch capacity, but other questions remain -- will the chassis withstand that much weight hanging off the back, bouncing, inertia? What about axles/ bearings/IRS/ brakes?

I could try to put a roof cargo box, thus the hitch would be loaded with 500 lbs, which is more manageable (if possible).

On the other hand, Roof-Box would cost me a 2-4 mpg penalty on highway, which would make the van a 20 mpg runner, which is close to the full-size Ford Van I used to have (18 mpg), but which I am trying to stay away from.

I want the Odyssey A)- to be spacious for my family travel, B)- be efficient in MPG and footprint (parking issues); yet C)- carry these loads. P/U truck can't do (A) or (B).